Senior Minister Sharjeel Inam Memon says all commercial establishments, including shops, markets, malls, food outlets, hotels, restaurants, wedding halls and marquees have been exempted from fixed closing timings
KARACHI: (UrduPoint/Pakistan Point News-May 16th, 2026) The Sindh government has lifted restrictions on business operating hours, and allowed markets, shopping malls, restaurants, hotels and marriage halls to function according to their regular schedules.
Senior Minister Sharjeel Inam Memon took to X, previously known as Twitter, and said that all commercial establishments, including shops, markets, malls, food outlets, hotels, restaurants, wedding halls and marquees have been exempted from fixed closing timings. He said the move has been taken to facilitate traders, businesses, and the general public.
He added that the decision reflects the provincial government’s approach to encouraging economic activity, easing public inconvenience, and supporting the business community, which plays a central role in economic stability.
According to a notification shared by the minister, the earlier restrictions were introduced under an energy conservation and austerity drive through a Home Department directive issued on April 10, 2026. That notification has now been effectively withdrawn for commercial outlets.
Memon said the decision was taken after receiving feedback from traders and business groups who had raised concerns over operational difficulties caused by restricted timings. He assured that the government would continue engaging with stakeholders to resolve their issues.
The previous time restrictions were part of a broader energy-saving strategy introduced in response to rising fuel prices and regional developments. Under that arrangement, businesses in non-divisional headquarters were required to close at 8pm, while those in divisional headquarters could operate until 9pm, with essential services kept exempt.
The commercial life across Sindh is expected to resume normal operating hours, providing relief to both businesses and consumers, with the latest relaxation.
